New electric powered VLE The Mercedes-Benz E-Class can accommodate up to eight people and combines the highest Mercedes comfort with the versatility of an MPV. The model is the first to be launched on the company's new modular 800-volt platform – developed from the ground up for electric operation with long range and flexible spaces.

“The new VLE marks the next milestone in our 140-year history. It redefines how we view space, comfort and flexibility,” says Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius.

The new VLE is not just a new model; it is a completely new class in the Mercedes-Benz range. A large and versatile car with the highest level of comfort. First in the new class is VLE 300 electric. The car has an output of 203 kW (276 hp) and a battery of 115 kWh. The new aerodynamic design has an air resistance coefficient of just 0.25 cd and an electricity consumption of down to 1.86 kWh/mile. something that is unique in the class. This gives a total range of up to just over 700 kilometers according to WLTP.

The 800-volt architecture allows the car to be fast-charged with up to 300 kW, making it possible to charge energy for approximately 350 kilometers in just 15 minutes.

Later also comes VLE 400 4MATIC electric, with all-wheel drive and a separate motor for the rear axle. The total output will then be over 300 kW (408 hp).
The trailer weight is up to a full 2,500 kg and the maximum ball pressure is a full 100 kg. When reversing with a trailer, the car's steering angles are automatically controlled at up to 7 km/h.

Built for long journeys
The chassis is developed with long journeys and comfort in mind. The AIRMATIC air suspension can raise or lower the car by up to 40 millimeters. Unlike other systems, the air suspension is not adjusted solely based on speed, but also uses map data from Google Maps. This means that the car will not be raised if, for example, it is being driven slowly in a traffic jam on a motorway.

Rear axle steering of up to seven degrees gives the car a turning radius of 10.9 meters – roughly on par with much smaller passenger cars. The VLE has electric sliding doors on both sides, both of which also have fully opening windows.

Convertible compartment
One of the basic ideas of the VLE is flexibility. The car can be available with anything from five to eight seats and for the two rear rows you can choose between five different types of seats. The most exclusive ”Grand Comfort seat” are fully electrically adjustable armchairs with armrests, integrated tables, massage and footrests.

A special system – Remote Variable Rear Space – allows the seats to be automatically moved to different positions, depending on whether the car needs to provide maximum luggage space or more legroom for passengers. It is also easy to roll the seats so that they can be easily removed completely when extra cargo space is needed.

Digital compartment
The VLE uses the latest version of Mercedes-Benz new operating system MB.OS. It controls everything from infotainment to driver assistance and enables over-the-air updates to the car's features. The system uses an AI-based virtual assistant that allows you to have complex conversations with the car about things you want it to do.

In front of the driver is the MBUX Superscreen – three combined screens behind a common glass surface that extends across the entire width of the car.

For the passengers in the back, there is the opportunity to have a completely unique experience. A 31-inch 8K screen is hidden in the ceiling above the front seats. With a voice command, it is pushed down while the cabin is darkened for an optimal experience. Either for watching a movie or for completely private video meetings.

The cabin is dominated by a large panoramic glass roof – Sky View – which extends from the B-pillar to the rear and lets light in over all three rows of seats.

“The VLE combines the flexibility of an MPV with the comfort of a limousine. It is just as suitable for active families as for leisurely long journeys or as an exclusive shuttle,” says Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

The new VLE will go on sale in Sweden this spring. Swedish prices have not yet been set.